Countryman Associates has introduced the I2 instrument microphone, offering a low profile while being well-suited for a wide range of instrument miking applications, including sound reinforcement of bands and orchestras as well as broadcast. It will be on display at the upcoming 2015 NAMM Show in Anaheim at booth 6691.
Every mechanical and electrical component of the new I2 has been engineered from the ground up for smooth frequency response, low noise, and precise polar patterns with deep nulls and natural on- and off-axis response. Frequency response is stated as 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
A combination of small size and sonic precision makes the mic suitable for X-Y, M-S, and other techniques that rely on accurate coincident positioning and consistent patterns. Another suggested application is distance miking that is invisible on camera. Flexible new close miking techniques are aided by Countryman’s new line of vibration-isolating magnetic instrument mounts, designed to mount securely and gently to a variety of instruments.
The new I2 is available in four polar pattern configurations: omnidirectional, cardioid, hypercardioid, and bidirectional/figure-8. Audio engineers can select the microphone best suited for any given instrument miking application, enabling them to take advantage of the microphone’s null points for isolating an instrument from unwanted sounds in close proximity.
The microphone ships with 10 feet of black aramid-reinforced high-strength cable, terminated for wireless transmitters or XLR connections. It’s also compatible with several hundred transmitters from dozens of wireless manufacturers, including Shure, Sennheiser, Sony, Lectrosonics, AKG Acoustics, Audio Technica, Electro-Voice, MIPRO, Nady Systems, Samson Technologies, Zaxcom, and others.
Chris Countryman, president of Countryman Associates, states, “Our new I2 instrument microphone addresses a myriad of instrument miking challenges commonly faced by audio engineers and show producers. It’s important to get the best, most accurate sound possible and eliminate the visual distraction created by a larger microphone and the microphone stand.
“By offering the microphone with four available polar patterns, engineers can use the configuration best suited for any given miking application and, in the process, achieve excellent results. I’m quite confident the new I2 Instrument Microphone will be well received.”
MSRP pricing is $349, including the instrument mounting system. Anticipated delivery is quarter 1, 2015.
